1. Add an apostrophe:
* For singular nouns ending in "s," add an apostrophe after the "s":
* The *actress's* performance was incredible.
* The *boss's* decision was unexpected.
* For plural nouns ending in "s," add an apostrophe after the "s":
* The *students's* exams are next week.
* The *birds's* nests were high in the trees.
2. Add an apostrophe and an "s":
* This is often preferred for singular nouns ending in "s" if it's easier to pronounce:
* The *boss's* decision was unexpected. (This is more common than *boss' decision*.)
* The *bus's* engine was making a strange noise.
3. Use "of" to show possession:
* This is an alternative option for singular nouns ending in "s" and is often used for clarity:
* The performance of the *actress* was incredible.
* The decision of the *boss* was unexpected.
Choosing the right method:
* If the noun ends in a hard "s" sound (like in "boss" or "actress"), adding an apostrophe and "s" is often preferred.
* If the noun ends in a soft "s" sound (like in "bus" or "class"), adding just an apostrophe might be more common.
* If the noun is a plural that ends in "s" (like "students"), adding just an apostrophe is the standard way to show possession.
Ultimately, there's no one right way to do it. Choose the method that sounds most natural and is easiest to understand.